The word “vagabond” refers to someone who wanders from place to place without a fixed home or steady job. For residents of Atlantic City and the surrounding communities, however, the word vagabond has taken on a new meaning. Thanks to its loyal customers and owner and manager Tom Harris, Vagabond has become synonymous with great food, memorable experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere.
During the summer months, the restaurant becomes a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. Since opening in March 2013, Vagabond has grown into one of Atlantic City’s favorite dining spots, even earning national recognition with a feature on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” on the Food Network.
According to Harris, some of the most rewarding aspects of owning the restaurant are creating new menu items, trying different foods, and meeting new people. His passion for food and hospitality continues to shape the restaurant’s ever-evolving menu.
Since opening its doors, Vagabond has enjoyed tremendous support from the local community. I’ve personally visited the restaurant several times and am a big fan of its turkey burgers, which can be customized with a variety of toppings. Other customer favorites include the Turkey Apple Brie sandwich, the Three-Way sandwich, Signature Fries, Happy Hour one-pound wings, and Tail Tenders.
What motivates Harris to continue working so hard? The answer is travel.
“My wife and I are big travelers,” Harris says. “We both know that to travel the world the way we do, it takes a lot of hard work. My motivation is to see all of the world, all of the continents, and all of the best beaches.”
His travels often inspire new additions to Vagabond’s eclectic menu. Harris has also found a way to combine work and adventure through Vagabond’s food truck, which has traveled well beyond the Jersey Shore to destinations including Kissimmee, Florida; Panama City Beach, Florida; Alabama; and Indianapolis.
For those considering a career in the restaurant industry, Harris offers some simple but valuable advice.
“Working at a restaurant at any age is great,” he says. “It’s worth it because you get to meet so many coworkers and customers.”
When asked to describe a summer day at Vagabond in three words, Harris didn’t hesitate: “Energetic, fulfilling, and memorable.”
During my visit on a summer evening, I noticed that the restaurant was filled with the sounds of conversation, families enjoying dinner, and vacationers relaxing after a day at the beach. The friendly service and relaxed atmosphere make Vagabond a place guests return to throughout the summer.
Harris admits that Vagabond’s success has exceeded his expectations. What began as a struggling establishment has become a local landmark. Today, Vagabond has expanded to two locations — Atlantic City and Egg Harbor Township. While the restaurant stays busy throughout the year, summer is by far its busiest season. Although the kitchen staff remains consistent year-round, additional front-of-house employees are hired to help accommodate the increase in customers during the warmer months.
Whether working indoors or outdoors, Harris enjoys every aspect of the business. During the summer, however, much of his time is spent outside, managing both the restaurant and its popular food truck.
Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for the first time, Vagabond is a casual, family-friendly restaurant well worth experiencing. With its welcoming atmosphere, creative menu, and dedicated staff, it’s easy to see why it has become such a beloved part of the Atlantic City community. If its past success is any indication, Vagabond’s future looks just as bright — for this summer and for many years to come.
Gary Mazin is a long time Ventnor resident. He has a love of writing, reading comic books and watching movies. He is a published author and is a graduate of both ACCC and New York Film Academy.
